9/11

For 9/11, I’ve chosen my embroidery of Jizo, the Japanese god who helps to heal hearts and lives in times of darkness and grief.

Jizo personifies the Bodhisattva Vow to save all beings from suffering. He works especially to save the souls of children who have died before their parents. In Japan, stone Jizo statues are often adorned with children’s clothing and surrounded by offerings of flowers and toys, both as protection for a dead child and in gratitude for the saving of a child’s life.

Jizo is guardian of mothers, children, travelers, pilgrims, and–very appropriately to this day of remembering–firemen.

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2 responses to “9/11”

After my trip to Japan, Jizo is one of my favorites now too. His statues were such a comforting and friendly sight on the trail – although there was a touch of sadness too, knowing the pain associated with the offerings made by the parents. I love that you chose to embroider him in red on the linen. Beautiful.